Jamaican singer-songwriter Shenseea, born Chinsea Lee, has once again secured a spot among the world’s top music talents, earning her second MTV Video Music Award nomination.
This time, the dancehall star is recognized in the Best Afrobeats category for Shake It to the Max, a vibrant collaboration with Ghanaian singer Moliy, producer Silent Addy, and fellow Jamaican hitmaker Skilibeng.
The nod marks a historic milestone; Shenseea is now the first Jamaican woman to ever receive two MTV VMA nominations. The only Jamaican to ever win the award remains dancehall legend Rodney “Bounty Killer” Price, who took home the trophy back in 2002 alongside No Doubt for Hey Baby.
Over the years, several Jamaican acts have made their mark on the MTV VMA stage, earning nominations for their contributions. Other Jamaican nominees include Shaggy for his 2001 hit “It Wasn’t Me.” Also in 2001, Beenie Man scored a nomination for “Girls Dem Sugar,” Sean Paul with multiple noms like “Get Busy,” “Baby Boy” with Beyonce, and “Cheap Thrills,” a collaboration with Sia. Damian Jr Gong Marley was also recognized for his 2006 record “Welcome to Jamrock,” while Spice, Shaggy, and Sean Paul were recognized for “Go Down Deh” in 2021.
Shenseea’s first nomination came in 2022 for Push Performance of the Year with R U That from her debut album Alpha. Now, just two years later, she’s back in the spotlight with a category that reflects her growing influence across genres and continents.
This latest accolade caps off what has been a whirlwind year for the 27-year-old star. Despite parting ways with Interscope Records in November 2024 and going fully independent, Shenseea’s career has continued to soar. Her sophomore album, Never Gets Late Here, earned a Grammy nomination at this year’s awards, confirming her status as one of Jamaica’s most dynamic and globally relevant voices.
Still, the “Shenyeng Boss” has found herself in the center of social media chatter this week, facing criticism from some African fans over her choice of outfit at Afrobeats superstar Davido’s wedding. While the online buzz hasn’t overshadowed her big news, her dress this weekend had social media abuzz as fans argued what was appropriate for the occasion.
With another VMA nomination in hand, and a career that shows no signs of slowing, she continues to represent Jamaica and Jamaican music with pride on bigger, bolder global stages.
